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SSANU, NASU Commence Nationwide Strike, Shut Universities Over Alleged Unfair Treatment

SSANU and NASU have initiated a nationwide strike, citing unfair treatment and unpaid salary arrears by the Federal Government. The strike, which began today, has shut down universities across Nigeria. SSANU’s National President, Muhammed Ibrahim, confirmed the commencement, emphasizing the unions’ readiness for action. Despite warnings and a lack of government response, the unions remain resolute in their demands.

Published

1 month ago

March 18, 2024

Stella Charles Akupue

SSANU, NASU Commence Nationwide Strike, Shut Universities Over Alleged Unfair Treatment

In a significant development, the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) have launched a nationwide strike today, bringing operations at universities across the country to a halt. This drastic action stems from allegations of unfair treatment and unresolved salary discrepancies by the Federal Government.

The unions had previously issued a stern warning, threatening to close down university hostels and power supply if their demands were unmet by March 18, 2024. SSANU’s National President, Muhammed Ibrahim, highlighted the non-payment of 2022 arrears to members, including Vice Chancellors, registrars, and bursars, as a critical point of contention.

Despite claims by Nigeria’s Minister for Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, of being unaware of the planned strike, Ibrahim confirmed the commencement of the strike during an appearance on Channels Television’s Morning Show programme.

“Definitely, it (the strike) has already started. As of today (Monday), all our workers in registry, bursary, works and maintenance, security, and students’ affairs have withdrawn their services,” stated Ibrahim, emphasizing the unions’ determination to continue until their demands are met.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of communication from government representatives, Ibrahim criticized the failure to comply with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to settle the arrears for 2022. He further noted the absence of outreach from the Minister of Labour, Nkiruka Onyejeocha, despite issuing a seven-day notice last Monday.

This lack of responsiveness has escalated tensions, with Ibrahim warning of further action if the government fails to address their demands after the initial seven-day warning strike.

As the strike unfolds, it casts a shadow over the nation’s education sector, leaving students and faculty members in limbo while underscoring the urgent need for dialogue and resolution between the unions and the government.

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